HUNDREDS attended the opening of the UK's first all-weather equestrian arena last night - with a Jordanian princess as the guest of honour.

The £250,000 David Broome Event Centre was officially opened by Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein of Jordan, daughter of the late King Hussein.

Olympic bronze medalist David Broome and his family welcomed the Princess to the centre, at Mount Ballan Manor, Crick, to officially open the new arena, which has a surface that can be used in all weathers.

Princess Haya, who has known the Broome family since riding at the Wales and West event centre in previous years, said that she was honoured to open the arena and that it gave her great pleasure.

She said: "The Broome family have given such a lot to the sport over the generations, every one of them, both in and out of the ring."

She said that the arena would accommodate people from the UK and internationally who wanted to compete.

She said: "My father always wanted to come to horse shows but the only horse show he came to was here at Wales and West.

"It is a great honour and pleasure to declare this arena open." Mr Broome's son James said: "Today has been a great day and it is such an honour for the Princess of Jordan to open the arena.

"It is a fantastic turnout and a great evening that shows the versatility of the arena. I am very pleased."

After the opening ceremony guests were treated to a display of carriage driving, six bar showjumping, mounted games and a dressage to music display.